Blackjack - 1-3-2-6 Betting Blackjack

Blackjack is more of a game of skill and strategy than luck. While card counting and other basic strategies might be helpful, managing your bankroll using the 1-3-2-6 system is more effective. 

The 1-3-2-6 betting system is suitable for casual and seasoned players, as it is patterned after a positive and controlled progression. But how does it work? In this guide, you will discover everything you need to know about the 1-3-2-6 system and whether it's the right strategy for quality blackjack tables.

Understanding the 1-3-2-6 betting system in blackjack 

The 1-3-2-6 betting system is a progressive strategy that follows four different unit sizes, whereby players increase their stakes to the next number whenever they win a bet. If players lose at any stage of the game, they return to the sequence's beginning. The goal of the 1-3-2-6 strategy is to minimise losses while playing at live blackjack tables or other casino games.

According to Cat Hulbert, blackjack requires a high level of smartness and dedication, “The smartest people I have known in my life were blackjack players. IQs over 150.” Thus, it's essential to understand how the 1-3-2-6 system works, in order to plan and manage your bankroll effectively.

How the 1-3-2-6 betting system works 

The table below highlights how the 1-3-2-6 betting system works.

From the table above, you will realize that different actions are required at every sequence of the 1-3-2-6 betting system.

Implementing the basic blackjack strategy with a 1-3-2-6 betting system

Using the 1-3-2-6 betting system on secure blackjack platforms is one of the best low-risk strategies for managing your bankroll. 

As Jack London said, "Life is not a matter of holding good cards, but sometimes, playing a poor hand well". Thus, poor cards or rugged house edges can be overcome using the right basic blackjack strategies and the intelligent 1-3-2-6 system.

The basic blackjack strategy

In the 1960s, Ed Thorp developed a basic blackjack strategy that tells players when to stand, hit or double down.

The basic blackjack strategies and when to use them are highlighted below.

• When to hit or stand: This strategy requires you to hit when they have 8 or less and stand on 17 or higher unless it's a soft hand.
• When to double down: This strategy requires you to double down on 9 if the dealer has 3-6 and 10 or 11 if the dealer has a lower total.
• When to split pairs: This strategy allows players to split 2s, 3s, 6s, 7s, and 9s if the dealer shows a weak card (2-6), and never split 5s or 10s.
• When to surrender: If the casino allows players to surrender their cards, then surrender 16 vs. dealer's 9, 10, or Ace.

Step-by-step guide to the 1-3-2-6 strategy in blackjack 

Below is the step-by-step guide for implementing the 1-3-2-6 betting strategy on blackjack.

1. Step one: Identify the blackjack game you want to bet on and the minimum bet requirement.
2. Step two: Set your base betting unit. Let's say your betting unit is £10, then your sequence will be £10, £30, £20, £60, following the 1-3-2-6 rules.
3. Step three: Follow the betting progression and rules. If you win a hand, progress to the next step, and if you lose at any point, go back to unit 1.
4. Step four: Implement basic blackjack strategy to maximise your wins with the 1-3-2-6 betting system.

When to reset the betting sequence 

You should reset the 1-3-2-6 betting sequence in the following situations.

• After you lose at any stage, for example, if you bet £30 at unit 3 and lose, you will return to unit 1 to bet £10 (provided £10 is your base bet).
• After completing the full 1-3-2-5 betting sequence, restart with your base betting unit. For example, your base bet is £10, and you bet £60 on the 4 units. To gain a profit of £120, you will have to restart the game again from unit 1, staking £10.
• When you reach your profit target or stop-loss limit, you must set a goal before playing the goal. If you do not want to reset, walk away when you hit your limit.

Pros and cons of using the 1-3-2-6 betting system 

The pros and cons of using the 1-3-2-6 betting system are highlighted in the table below.

Who should use the 1-3-2-6 strategy? 

The 1-3-2-6 strategy can be used at licensed blackjack sites by gamblers in the following categories:

• Players who follow basic blackjack strategy, as it helps to increase winning odds since the 1-3-2-6 system doesn't impact casinos' house edges.
• Players who love to win a few hands in a row, as the strategy is designed to maximise profits during short streaks.
• For players who prefer low-risk betting, the 1-3-2-6 strategy helps gamblers significantly control losses.
• Players who want to manage their bets smoothly and efficiently without aggressive risks.

Who should avoid the 1-3-2-6 system? 

You should avoid the 1-3-2-6 if you belong to the following category of gamblers:

• Players who expect guaranteed wins from the system.
• Aggressive players who prefer the doubling bets methods, as used in the Martingale system.
• Impulsive players, as the 1-3-2-6 system, wouldn't be effective if one doesn't follow due diligence.
• Avoid the 1-3-2-6 system if you prefer high-stake betting; try strategies like Paroli and Martingale.

Play Blackjack Responsibly with 1-3-2-6 Betting System

The 1-3-2-6 blackjack system is perfect for players who enjoy a disciplined and low-risk approach to betting in a live casino. It is a game of skill, and when paired with basic blackjack strategy, players have a higher chance of winning. You can be sure to enjoy full transparency and maximum gambling security.

Ready to improve your blackjack betting skills? Try the 1-3-2-6 system and boost your gameplay now!